Cracking elec kiln cover with wedge - ok or bad?

There are frequently comments about cracking the kiln lid. But one of the statements burned into my brain during at the first studio I worked in was NOT to leave the kiln lid open with the wedge. I was told that it would eventually damage it.

Chris,
Are you referring to firing with the lid partially open or venting after firing. I usually wedge the lid open on my kiln (electric) after it has finished firing. But I give it a 12 hour cool down before doing that. I have been doing that for the past 20 years and haven't lost a load or partial load yet. I have two Duncan kilns and will even go so far as to open the bottom peep hole in addition to wedging the lid open. I am firing to a cone 6 and dont glaze. Dont think I would trust this process if I was glazing. To fast a cool down could ruin the load.
RJ

I have used a soft brick wedge for over 35 years on my bisques in electric . I did so today. I only do it when I need the stuff sooner like for x-mas sales NOW.
My lid has held up fine but I am very careful with it.
Mark

I, too , use a soft brick wedge , ....the one that came with the kiln. I had one electric kiln that had a teal piece that would hold up the lid at different intervals like 1" or 2" instead of using a brick. That one was about 20 or more years ago. One my big oval kiln I sometimes use two posts to prop the lid. the Lid is over 42" wide.

If the kiln has a vent, no need to crack the lid. The purpose is to "get rid of" the moisture in the clay that is gone once 212 degrees is reached. (chemical water is a whole different animal)
You can prop the lid. I use a 1"square post, (-10" long, to distribute the stress.) You can also leave the peep holes open. TIP: hold a mirror above the peep hole- if it fogs, then there is still moisture in the ware.

Propping the lid will not cause it to crack, but it can cause damage to the area where the prop is placed. So only use a soft brick wedge to prop, never a shelf post or anything hard, as it will abrade the brick.

Thanks Neil, Marcia, Mark, you understood my question about care of the hardware. sounds like I had an over cautious teacher. I do use the wedge that came with the kiln and use it carefully; just wanted to be sure.

Thanks Neil, Marcia, Mark, you understood my question about care of the hardware. sounds like I had an over cautious teacher. I do use the wedge that came with the kiln and use it carefully; just wanted to be sure.